The Stone Barrington series by Stuart Woods is a captivating blend of suspense, legal drama, and the luxurious lifestyle of its eponymous protagonist. First introduced in “New York Dead” in 1991, Stone Barrington, a suave and savvy attorney and ex-cop in New York City, quickly became a favorite among readers of detective and thriller fiction.
The World of Stone Barrington
Barrington’s character is a sophisticated mix of intelligence, charm, and resourcefulness. A former detective with the NYPD, he transitions into a legal career, which opens doors to high society and brings him into a world filled with intrigue, danger, and romance. His cases often navigate through the realms of corporate law, white-collar crime, and the corridors of power, allowing readers a glimpse into both the opulent lifestyles of the elite and the shadowy corners of legal and criminal battles.
A Series Marked by Fast-Paced Action
Stuart Woods’ writing style in the Stone Barrington series is notable for its fast pace and engaging narrative. Each novel is filled with quick-witted dialogues, plot twists, and a variety of characters, ranging from politicians and business moguls to criminals and spies. The settings span the globe, from the skyscrapers of New York City to the sun-drenched beaches of tropical islands, adding an element of exotic adventure to the series.
Evolution of the Series
As the series has evolved, so has its protagonist. Over the course of more than 50 books, Stone Barrington develops from a detective into a sophisticated lawyer and power player. This evolution keeps the series fresh and allows Woods to introduce new scenarios and challenges, ensuring that each book offers something new to even the most devoted readers.
A Blend of Genres
What makes the Stone Barrington novels stand out is their blend of genres. Combining elements of mystery, legal thriller, and high-society drama, Woods creates a unique narrative recipe that is both entertaining and engaging. The series appeals to readers who enjoy fast-paced thrillers as well as those who are drawn to the allure of high society and the intricacies of legal maneuvering.
Stuart Woods’ Craftsmanship
Stuart Woods’ craftsmanship as a novelist is evident in his well-researched plots and the development of his characters. His background in advertising and his experiences living in various cities around the world lend authenticity and depth to his narratives.
In Summary
The Stone Barrington series stands as a testament to Stuart Woods’ ability to craft engaging, suspenseful stories that whisk readers into a world of danger, intrigue, and luxury. With its charismatic protagonist and a mix of legal intrigue and high-stakes action, the series has cemented its place as a staple in the thriller genre.
Below is the order of publication for the Stone Barrington book series.
Publication Order of Stone Barrington Books
| New York Dead | (1991) |
| Dirt | (1996) |
| Dead in the Water | (1997) |
| Swimming to Catalina | (1998) |
| Worst Fears Realized | (1999) |
| L.A. Dead | (2000) |
| Cold Paradise | (2001) |
| The Short Forever | (2002) |
| Dirty Work | (2003) |
| Reckless Abandon | (2004) |
| Two Dollar Bill | (2004) |
| Dark Harbor | (2006) |
| Fresh Disasters | (2007) |
| Shoot Him If He Runs | (2007) |
| Hot Mahogany | (2008) |
| Loitering with Intent | (2009) |
| Kisser | (2009) |
| Lucid Intervals | (2010) |
| Strategic Moves | (2010) |
| Bel-Air Dead | (2011) |
| Son of Stone | (2011) |
| D.C. Dead | (2011) |
| Unnatural Acts | (2012) |
| Severe Clear | (2012) |
| Collateral Damage | (2012) |
| Unintended Consequences | (2013) |
| Doing Hard Time | (2013) |
| Standup Guy | (2014) |
| Carnal Curiosity | (2014) |
| Cut and Thrust | (2014) |
| Paris Match | (2014) |
| Insatiable Appetites | (2015) |
| Hot Pursuit | (2015) |
| Naked Greed | (2015) |
| Foreign Affairs | (2015) |
| Scandalous Behavior | (2016) |
| Family Jewels | (2016) |
| Dishonorable Intentions | (2016) |
| Sex, Lies & Serious Money | (2016) |
| Below the Belt | (2017) |
| Fast and Loose | (2017) |
| Indecent Exposure | (2017) |
| Quick & Dirty | (2017) |
| Unbound | (2018) |
| Shoot First | (2018) |
| Turbulence | (2018) |
| Desperate Measures | (2018) |
| A Delicate Touch | (2018) |
| Wild Card | (2019) |
| Contraband | (2019) |
| Stealth | (2019) |
| Treason | (2020) |
| Hit List | (2020) |
| Choppy Water | (2020) |
| Shakeup | (2020) |
| Hush-Hush | (2020) |
| Double Jeopardy | (2021) |
| Class Act | (2021) |
| Foul Play | (2021) |
| Criminal Mischief | (2021) |
| A Safe House | (2022) |
| Black Dog | (2022) |
| Distant Thunder | (2022) |
| Near Miss | (2023) |